Type 2 diabetes, also known as T2DM, is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance. In this condition, the body is unable to use insulin effectively, leading to glucose buildup in the bloodstream. This can result in severe health complications such as heart disease, gum disease, and nerve damage.
While some health experts debate the terminology, the goal for those with T2DM is to achieve either reversal or remission. Reversal is defined by a return to healthy blood sugar levels, while remission requires maintaining normal levels for at least 3 months without the need for medication. However, there is no guarantee that T2DM won’t reoccur in the future.
Research suggests that various methods can help individuals with T2DM achieve remission. These methods include a low-calorie diet, very low-calorie diet (VLCD), intermittent calorie-restricted diet, and bariatric weight loss surgery. Studies have shown that these approaches can lead to a quick restoration of blood sugar levels in some cases, potentially within days.
Studies have indicated that following a low-calorie or a very low-calorie diet can be effective in reversing T2DM. For instance, a person following a VLCD of 400 to 800 calories per day may achieve reversal in as little as 8 to 12 weeks. Similarly, a low-calorie diet of around 900 calories per day may result in no longer requiring insulin medication in just 6.5 days.
Bariatric weight loss surgery has also been shown to effectively reverse T2DM in a significant percentage of individuals. Following this surgery, blood sugar levels may decrease within hours or days. Long-term studies have suggested that a majority of individuals may still be in remission from T2DM even 12 years after undergoing the procedure.
While these methods show promise in reversing T2DM, it is essential to proceed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Moreover, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle with sustained changes to keep blood sugar levels in check. It’s important to note that not everyone may be suitable for a very low-calorie diet, and medical supervision is necessary due to potential health complications.
Achieving and maintaining remission from T2DM requires dedication and consistency. While possible for some individuals to maintain reversal in the long term, the risk of reoccurrence remains present. While there is no recognized permanent cure for T2DM, ongoing research aims to explore the possibility of full reversibility in the future.
While T2DM poses significant challenges, there is hope for those seeking to reverse the condition. Through methods like low-calorie diets and bariatric weight loss surgery, individuals may achieve remission and lead healthier lives. However, it is crucial to approach these methods cautiously, under the guidance of healthcare professionals, and with a focus on long-term lifestyle changes for sustained results.
Leave a Reply